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Arsenal 0-0 Red Star Belgrade

“I have been in touch with Santi throughout his rehab, and it has been extremely tough and testing for him,” said the Arsenal boss.

“If there is one guy who loves football passionately, loves to be on the pitch, and comes in with a smile every day when he is fit, it’s Santi Cazorla, so you know he suffers a lot not to be out there with the ball at his feet.

“He is extremely strong and brave, and behind his smile is a strength you would not guess. He is a very strong character, and everyone at Arsenal wishes him well and we hope to have him back soon.”

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The Spain international has not played for Arsenal since the Champions League win against Ludogorets in October 2016.

He is currently living in Salamanca receiving ongoing treatment while his family are in London - but he is hoping to join them again in the coming weeks.

Speaking to Marca he said: “I’m still cautious because of the pain and the tough times but I still trust in myself but you have to bare in mind this injury has never been as straightforward as many thought.